Moving from the Scottish Borders to London: Costs & Tips

Moving from the fresh air of the Scottish Borders to the bustling streets of London is an exciting life change. But practically speaking, it is a massive logistical undertaking. Covering roughly 350 to 400 miles, this isn't a job for a few friends and a rented transit van.

As a removal company based right here in the Borders, we regularly run the route down south. If you are wondering exactly how much it costs to move to London and how the process works, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.

How Much Does the Move Cost?

Because every house is different, there is no single flat rate. However, for a dedicated removal service (where the van is exclusively yours and travels directly from your Borders home to your new London address), you can expect the following rough estimates:

• 1-Bedroom Flat (Luton Van): £800 – £1,200
• 2 to 3-Bedroom House (Luton or 7.5t Lorry): £1,200 – £1,800+
• 4+ Bedroom House: £1,800 – £2,500+

How Long Does the Drive Take?

The drive from our base in Hawick (or anywhere in the Borders) to Central London typically takes between 7 to 9 hours of pure driving time, depending on traffic on the A1 or M6, and mandatory driver rest breaks.

The Typical 2-Day Schedule:
Because of the distance, most full-house moves are split over two days. Our local Borders team will arrive on Day 1 to load your belongings safely into the van. On Day 2, we drive down to London first thing in the morning and unload at your new property by the afternoon.

Why Choose a Borders-Based Mover?

When moving to a massive city like London, it is almost always better to use a removal company based at your starting point (like Handyvan) rather than a London-based firm.

• Local Knowledge: We know the tight country lanes, rural access points, and weather conditions of the Borders perfectly.
• Lower Overheads: London companies charge London prices. By booking a reliable Borders-based company, you get a much more competitive rate for the exact same journey.
• Accountability: We are a local business with a local reputation to uphold. You aren't just a number on a massive corporate ledger.